The book was a pleasant surprise. I went into it expecting one thing and finding something entirely different than I could have imagined. Holly Black builds a vivid world that feels distinctly other and terrifying and it's refreshing to experience a fantasy world through the eyes of a character who both does not belong, but also maintains enough knowledge to live and operate in the dangerous landscape. There is something that feels rotten about the world of Faerie but Jude's fierce desire to stake a claim keeps your attention locked in. 

If you are not a fan of morally gray characters, then this book likely will not be one you want to pick up. Jude isn't what one might consider good, but there is a hunger and motivation to her actions that can be recognized as distinctly human. I do not agree with the choices she makes, and honestly I am not even sure I can confidently say that I am rooting for her to come out on top, but she is certainly the most interesting character to follow and her story and desires have captivated me. 

The areas that I struggled with this book -  some events and betrayals didn't feel as fleshed out as they should have been, given the development and attention that was given to them in the beginning. There were some moments in retrospect where I wonder how a character seemed to make a complete 180 in their characterization. 

The triumphs - this books has such a unique voice and Jude feels so entirely her own that it makes it easy to overlook other flaws that exist in her character. I know that this is not going to be a happy story with a happy ending, but the world of Faerie is as intoxicating as the fruit that grows there.